Types of calcium supplements

Several different kinds of calcium mixtures are used in calcium supplements. Supplement mixtures contain different amounts of elemental calcium. The standard amounts of elemental calcium in these common calcium supplements are:

• Calcium carbonate: 40% elemental calcium.
• Calcium citrate: 21% elemental calcium.
• Calcium gluconate: 9% elemental calcium.
• Calcium lactate: 13% elemental calcium.

Calcium carbonate and calcium citrate are the two most common types of calcium supplements. They have higher amounts of elemental calcium. Calcium gluconate and calcium lactate have lower amounts of calcium and may not do enough to increase calcium levels. But if higher doses of calcium cause issues or discomfort, calcium gluconate and calcium lactate may be an option.

In some supplements, calcium may be combined with vitamins and minerals. For example, vitamin D or magnesium may be added to a calcium supplement. Vitamin D and magnesium help your body better absorb calcium. Check the list of ingredients to see what type of calcium is in the supplement and what other nutrients may have been added. This information is important if you have any health or dietary concerns.